As the summer holidays roll in, millions of UK drivers are facing a surprising hit to their wallets. According to recent research, parents and motorists could end up spending an average of £459 on car-related expenses in August alone.
From longer journeys to rising fuel prices, the cost of using your car this summer is expected to surge—especially for families.
If you’re planning road trips, school runs, or beach getaways, here’s everything you need to know about where that money is going, and more importantly, how to save it.
The Breakdown: Why Driving Costs Are So High in August
A major study shows that during the summer break, UK drivers are:
- Spending up to 41 hours in their cars
- Using more fuel due to longer leisure trips
- Driving further to entertain children or enjoy quiet time
- Paying more at the pump due to fuel station markups
This combination of increased distance, higher prices, and more frequent travel can easily add up to £459 or more per household.
Where Does the £459 Go?
Here’s a detailed breakdown of average car-related costs in August:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (August) |
|---|---|
| Fuel / Charging (long trips) | £230 |
| Food & snacks during journeys | £60 |
| Vehicle wear and tear | £45 |
| Parking fees | £40 |
| Cleaning/maintenance | £25 |
| Toll roads & congestion charges | £59 |
| Total | £459 |
Summer Driving Habits Behind the Surge
The research highlights how driving behaviour changes during summer holidays:
- 33% of parents use longer car rides to enjoy peace and quiet
- 27% drive longer to spend one-on-one time with their children
- 1 in 5 extend trips to let kids finish their favourite songs
- Others choose detours for sightseeing or relaxation
While these moments can be meaningful, they come at a cost—especially as petrol and diesel prices remain volatile.
How to Cut Your Car Costs This August
If you’re worried about overspending, here are some practical tips to keep your August driving budget under control:
Use supermarket fuel stations
They are often 30–40p per litre cheaper than motorway or branded pumps.
Plan routes with fewer tolls
Use navigation apps that help you avoid toll roads and traffic congestion zones.
Pack smart and light
Avoid excess weight like golf clubs or beach toys, which increase fuel consumption.
Use EV charge apps
If you drive an electric car, Zap-Map and similar apps show free charging stations.
Drive smoothly
Avoid hard braking and sudden acceleration to improve fuel efficiency.
With millions of parents and motorists hitting the road this August, the £459 average cost of car use should serve as a wake-up call. Whether you’re planning school holiday outings, road trips, or just regular drives, smart planning and fuel-saving habits can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
From packing light to using cheaper petrol stations, even small changes can make a big difference in keeping your travel budget on track. So before you start the engine, take a moment to rethink your route, review your packing list, and consider how to drive more efficiently.
FAQs
Why are UK drivers losing £459 this August?
The average cost includes fuel, parking, snacks, wear and tear, and longer summer trips, which increase spending.
How can I reduce car costs during the holidays?
Use supermarket fuel, pack light, avoid tolls, drive efficiently, and use free EV charging where available.
Are there apps to help plan cheaper travel?
Yes. Zap-Map helps EV users find free charging points, and most GPS apps let you avoid toll roads and traffic.
